I share this with you because I think we, as atheists, are developing a reputation for our derisive attitude and commentary – as people who mock and assail ideas formed in faith. We see the weakness in faith-based logic and scripture – how satisfying it would feel to break it!

Think of those who we most “idolize” – men such as Richard Dawkins and Christopher Hitchens. Brilliant men who have climbed great mountains of thought and reason, only to fish in the mud for those who might take the bait. They spend more time and energy whooping the choir (/r/atheism) into a polarizing frenzy than they do impressing their knowledge and ideas upon those who would benefit from it the most.

2 Responses to “The atheist perspective – talking to believers”

They spend more time and energy whooping the choir (/r/atheism) into a polarizing frenzy than they do impressing their knowledge and ideas upon those who would benefit from it the most.

I disagree. If you read Dawkins’ “converts corner”, you’ll see just who and how many people have benefited from his style. I don’t think there is only one way to spread rationality.

on 01 Jan 2010 at 1:16 am 2.skeptic said …

So this is an atheist group, and you don’t believe in God, or any other power, and you don’t believe in organized religion, but you believe in rationality. Okay that i understand. What I don’t understand is that you trust (or have faith) in Science and you are trying to convert people? How is this not another form of organized religion? Just curious.